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Expat son-in-law celebrates Lunar New Year in Quzhou

chinadaily.com.cn| Updated :2020-01-17

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Haza pastes a paper-cut onto a window with his daughter. [Photo/qz123.com]

Haza, a Sri Lankan who lives in Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, is preparing for his 13th Lunar New Year in China, according to local media reports.

Haza initially came to Quzhou in 2007 and has since built a family there. Haza said he regards the Chinese city as his second hometown.

As the Chinese New Year approaches, Haza is bringing his children to local markets to let them experience the holiday festivities.

He said that red envelopes, paper-cuts for windows, and poetic couplets are an essential part of the New Year for his family.

"The New Year Festival in Sri Lanka falls on April 13 and 14," said Haza. "Our traditions share some similarities with the Chinese New Year."

According to Haza, his country also has a specific schedule for buying new clothes, eating meals, and getting haircuts.

However, the Quzhou expat prefers the Chinese New Year, as friends and family will gather together for a joyous reunion.

His first Chinese New Year with his wife's family remains fresh in his memory. Haza recalled that when he first came to his wife's house, his father-in-law gave him a red envelope and he had absolutely no idea what it was. Now he knows it is a type of blessing in China.

After years of living in China, Haza has also become used to calculating his age using the 12 Chinese zodiac signs.

"Quzhou is really a special place for me," said Haza, adding that the city has such a rich history and culture and that he can work while enjoying his life in the city.

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Haza runs a store selling Sri Lankan specialties in Quzhou. [Photo/qz123.com]